First on CNN: New NFL initiative aims to help minority businesses get contractsThe National Football League launched a new program aimed at increasing the number of minority- and women-owned businesses that work with the league throughout the year. The initiative, called NFL Source, was announced during the league’s spring meeting in Nashville on Tuesday and aims to encourage teams to reinvest in their communities by doing business with underrepresented populations. While previous efforts to improve supplier diversity have focused on subcontracting opportunities, officials told CNN NFL Source will help the league and its 32 teams identify potential partners for both year-round and subcontract consideration. The league also plans to distribute a diversity playbook of businesses to teams that opt into the program in September 2024. Beane said he expects NFL Source may receive backlash from some NFL fans, teams and critics, but the league remains committed to inclusion.

Source: CNN May 22, 2024 02:09 UTC